Day two of the Goa International Travel Mart (GITM) 2024 witnessed an array of insightful discussions and engaging sessions, further solidifying Goa’s position as a premier tourism destination.
The day kicked off with a riveting panel discussion and sessions by panelists G B Srithar, Head of Tourism Services, VFS Global, Carl Vaz, President, SKAL International India and Chairman & CEO, Charson Advisory Services Pvt Ltd, Jack Ajit Sukhija, President Elect, Travel & Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), and Ajay Prakash, President, Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) TBC.
Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC stated “GITM stands as a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. With a notable attendance of buyers, visitors, and enthusiasts, the GITM 2024 has facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas and fostered significant networking opportunities. It has been an honor to witness the forging of new partnerships between like-minded individuals and businesses alike, all united in their dedication to showcasing Goa’s unique charm to the world.”
He added, “As we bid farewell to another successful 4th edition, I am filled with optimism for the future of our tourism industry. The momentum and enthusiasm generated by GITM leave me confident that Goa’s potential as a premier destination for regenerative tourism will continue to flourish.”
The first Panel Discussion Titled ‘New Vision: Strategy, Branding & Promotion’ by panelist Andrés O. Hayes, President and CEO of Airtifae Hospitality Consulting, Carl Vaz, CEO of Mumbai based Charson Advisory Services, GB Srithar, Head of VFS Global’s Tourism Services, Ajay Prakash, Chief Executive of Nomad Travels, Mumbai and the Founder President of IIPT-India (International Institute for Peace through Tourism – India): delved into innovative strategies for promoting tourism in Goa and enhancing its brand identity on a global scale. The Plenary Session shed light on developing a new vision for branding strategy and promotion that aligns with the core values and objectives of the organization.
It involves a strategic blend of creative vision, market analysis, and effective communication strategies to effectively position Goa as a premier destination for regenerative tourism. The session was emphasized implementing a comprehensive branding strategy and promotion plan, which can effectively communicate its new vision for regenerative tourism, attract conscientious travelers, and foster sustainable growth for the destination.
Following the panel discussion, attendees gathered for Plenary Session II titled ‘Goa: A High Yield Destination’ by Andrés O. Hayes, President and CEO of Airtifae Hospitality Consulting and Praveen Roy, Hospitality Educationalist and Hotel Operations Strategic Advisor: encapsulated the essence of a destination that not only attracts a significant number of visitors but also offers substantial economic returns and cultural dividends. Elaborating on this topic involved delving into various aspects that contribute to Goa’s status as a high-yield destination, where Goa’s potential as a high-yield tourism destination was explored in depth. From leveraging its natural beauty to capitalizing on emerging travel trends, the session provided valuable insights into positioning Goa as a top choice for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Plenary Session III titled ‘Development of Skills for the Tourism sector in Goa’ by the panelist D.S. Prashant , CEO of Startup and IT Promotion Cell, Govt. of Goa, Varun Chawla, Founder, 91springboard and Build3, Thejus Joseph- CEO, FiiRE- Tourismtech Incubator, Ryan Prazeres, Founder – Oneboard- Tourismtech Startup, Jack Sukija- President- TTAG Moderator, Pankaj Taneja, Tour Operator , Netherlands, Martin Mackay, Digital Nomad, Matt Macintosh Digital Nomad- Community member at AColmeia Coliving: was a multifaceted endeavor aimed at enhancing the professionalism, expertise, and service quality within the industry.
Elaborating on this topic involved exploring various strategies and initiatives designed to empower individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in diverse roles within the tourism sector. The Session focused on the development of skills for the tourism sector in Goa, addressing the importance of workforce training and capacity building in ensuring the industry’s long-term sustainability. Experts discussed strategies for nurturing talent and equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to meet the evolving demands of the tourism sector.
GITM 2024 is estimated that over 500 buyers and 300 sellers converged into a fruitful discussions and negotiations. With a report from the sellers, over 3000 meetings took place, facilitating invaluable connections and partnerships within the industry. The sellers recorded business prospects, estimated at over 10 million Dollars, underscoring the event’s significance as a platform for strategic partnerships and driving economic growth within the tourism sector.
As the curtains drew on two days of great networking and partnerships at GITM 2024, attendees left with a palpable sense of enthusiasm and determination to steer Goa’s tourism sector towards even greater success. Upholded by the insightful discussions, innovative ideas, and promising collaborations forged throughout the day. With a collective commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and excellence, stakeholders departed GITM inspired and empowered to propel Goa’s tourism industry to new heights of prosperity and prominence on the global stage.
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